Here’s some surprising news about vehicle break-ins.

Did you know that 85% of broken-into cars in 2019 were left unlocked?

While there’s no surefire way to prevent car breakins, but there are some easy ways to reduce the chances of becoming a victim.

Make your vehicle a much less appealing target. Thieves look for opportunities. Make them “work” for their loot, and they’re apt to move on to an easier target.

With car breakins, they’re usually looking for a small payoff. What this type of thief wants is a quick thrill—or maybe a little extra revenue—for as little work as possible.

By making your car a harder target for these people, you make it a less desirable option.

You can take steps to help stop thieves:

• Always lock your car doors. Remove your valuables, including guns, purses and electronics.

Take your set of spare keys out of your vehicle. Roll up the windows and lock your doors. Your console or glove box is not a mobile gun safe.

• Running into the gas station or convenience store? Even for just a minute, it is unlawful to leave your vehicle running unattended. Many motor vehicles are stolen this way.

• Don’t leave your car title inside your car. Registrations can be reissued, but it can be difficult to get a replacement title. Store it in a safe place at home.

• If you’re prone to forgetting to lock your vehicle, set reminders for yourself to check them before bed. A phone alarm or a sticky note you’ll see before going to sleep can be helpful.

Don’t let the next call we respond to be a vehicle “let-in.”